Well, this weekend we are removing the very LAST of the wallpaper in our house in preparation for painting! I’m very excited about this as I’ve wanted to paint for awhile. I wanted to make sure we used something healthy and eco-friendly though for taking it down. What we did was peeled off the first layer and then sprayed what was left with a vinegar & water mix. After letting it soak for a few minutes we scraped it off with a car window ice-scraper made of plastic. It worked great! We had considered renting a steamer to remove it but this worked so well I’m glad we didn’t bother with that.

I can’t rave enough about vinegar! I use it for cleaning all the time too!

CathySep 02, 2008 at 09:13 am

I love using vinegar for cleaning the house too. :) If you don’t mind, what do you use for your toilet? I have tried several different recipes and it seems like within days it needs a good cleaning again. I have enjoyed not having chemicals in the house anylonger and know there is a good natural cleaner for the toilet just waiting for me.
Cathy

LauraSep 03, 2008 at 12:52 pm

Hi Cathy,
For the toilet I usually sprinkle baking soda in first and then spray the vinegar on. But I know what you mean about it needing a good cleaning often. I’m finding that I have a buildup of stuff that I just can’t get off. Of course, we do the “if it’s yellow let it mellow...” thing to save water so I think that contributes to the problem. I need to find something that will clean REALLY hard stuff and yet be safe to breath. If I come across anything I’ll be sure to let you know. :)

Oh, I’ve also heard of using Borax. You could try that. I use it in my homemade laundry soap.

~Laura

CathySep 03, 2008 at 05:33 pm

Thanks Laura for the ideas. I am using Borax right now and previously did the baking soda and vinegar. It works for about two days and then a smell develops. We could probably flush a little more often but it does seem wasteful. :) If you hear of anything new, please do let me know. Cathy